Abstract: This invention relates to an apparatus for automatically providing a predetermined portion of a meat product in a casing, and for automatically closing and clamping closed the open end of the casing. The apparatus includes a portioning piston and cylinder arrangement including a second piston and cylinder arrangement which regulates the speed of the first piston and cylinder arrangement. Meat product is fed to the portioning cylinder from a source of the meat product by a valve arrangement, and the valve arrangement then passes the meat from the portioning cylinder to a horn. The portioned product is inserted in a casing whose end is automatically clamped closed after the complete portion is inserted in the casing.